A significant concern for solar panels is inclement weather, such as hurricanes, blizzards, and strong winds. When it comes to extreme weather events, many homeowners who want to safeguard their long-term investments are most concerned about hail. 

This is due to the hail’s direct and harmful impact on rooftop solar panels. We’re here to provide you some comfort if the sound of hailstones hitting solar panels makes you shudder in dread (insert money flying away emoji). 

Fortunately, severe hailstorms don’t often happen in our nation, and most solar panels can take most light-to-moderate impacts. A National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) research found a less than 5% probability that hail may harm solar panels. 

Although extremely unlikely, solar panel hail damage is never wholly improbable. 

Knowing exactly what happens to solar panels when exposed to hail is essential for those who live in Texas, Colorado, Nebraska, or other regions where hail is a regular occurrence. You may use this information to guide your decision-making on the protective measures to take for your solar panels during these severe weather conditions. 

Restrictions on warranties for hail-damaged solar panels 

Since most warranties do not cover such harm, photovoltaic (PV) modules are harmed by hail. The coverage is restricted to particular situations or occurrences for solar contracts that include hail within the “environmental causes” category (which is uncommon). 

The lesson here is that it is strongly advised to confirm if the warranty covers hail damage and the scope of the coverage if you reside in a region prone to experiencing it, like the Midwest. 

If the hail damage portion of your solar panel warranty is excluded, you would need to check your homeowner’s insurance for coverage.

• Uncategorized